Squonk Blues: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
By Robert Buckley
Grade: 0.5
Item: 35-PK00335175
$50.00
Pickup currently not available
Buy Extra Parts (Digital PDF Download)
| Product | Price | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Squonk Blues - Conductor Score (Full Score) | $7.50 | |
| Squonk Blues - Flute | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Oboe | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Bb Clarinet | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Bb Bass Clarinet | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Eb Alto Saxophone | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Bb Tenor Saxophone | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Eb Baritone Saxophone | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Bb Trumpet | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - F Horn | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Trombone/Baritone B.C./Bassoon | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Baritone T.C. | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Tuba | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Percussion 1 | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Percussion 2 | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Mallet Percussion | $6.00 | |
| Squonk Blues - Piano | $6.00 |
Parts Added to Cart!
Description
This quirky, spirited piece is in the style of a blues waltz and based on the mythical legend of the squonk, a forest creature that dissolves into a pool of tears when it is cornered. However, on dark moonless nights when no one is about, they gather together to sing and dance the "Squonk Blues!" A unique change of pace, this composition uses the first six notes of the B-flat scale. Dur: 1:45
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00335175
More about this title
Why we love this
Buckley taps into something rarely heard in the concert band repertoire: genuine humor paired with solid musicianship. The blues waltz framework gives students a real rhythmic challenge (three against four), while the constraint of using only six notes of the B-flat scale forces clever, inventive orchestration that sounds anything but limited.
What to expect
Mischievous and liberating. The constraint of six scale degrees creates an oddly intimate sound, almost folk-like, while the blues waltz groove keeps things modern and swinging. You get the sense of watching something magical happen when no one is looking.
Who it's for
Bands at the half-step level looking for a conversation starter that works as a concert closer or pops between heavier repertoire. This is smart programming for groups ready to tackle unusual meters without the weight of a full dramatic arc.
How to get the most out of it
- Nail the triplet rhythm that defines the blues waltz feel. Have your rhythm section lock this pocket first, then layer in the winds once it's secure.
- Lean into the storytelling. This piece invites character and personality, so encourage your students to play the joy of the squonks' secret gathering rather than treating it as a novelty act.
- Keep the tempo steady at a walking pulse. The 1:45 duration moves quickly, so avoid dragging through transitions.
How to use it
Save this for a concert moment where you want to reset the audience's energy. It fits perfectly after a serious work or as the penultimate piece before a grand finale, giving your band a chance to show their lighter side without sacrificing musicality.
Skills your students will build
- Blues waltz rhythmic feel and triplet subdivision
- Three-against-four rhythmic coordination
- Constraint-based composition awareness (limited pitch palette)
- Ensemble balance and voice independence with restricted harmonic material
- Style and character interpretation in a non-traditional concert context